There is a new kitchen store in Gig Harbor.

Cook’s Whimsy, located in Olympic Square just two doors down from Harbor Greens, will celebrate its grand opening Dec. 3. It strives to be the place foodies think of first when they need a new appliance, the latest cookbook, pots and pans, or just a handy gadget.

Carrie Clark, the store’s owner/manager, has a young and vivacious appearance, but she brings more than just enthusiasm to this start-up business. You could say she has been planning for this opportunity all her life.

While Clark obtained a culinary degree from Seattle Central Community College, she worked in the renowned kitchen store, Mrs. Cook’s. She then spent several years in the kitchen at Kaspar’s to hone her cooking skills.

After she completed a bachelor of arts degree  in business administration at the University of Washington, she knew she wanted to start a business of her own.

In one way, Clark became spoiled by those years in Seattle; she grew accustomed to having easy access to the tools of the trade. When she moved to Gig Harbor, she often found she was frustrated.

That’s a problem she hopes to fix for her customers.

“I just couldn’t find what I wanted in one place,” she said. “I want them to say, ‘Everything I need is there.’ ”

Whether people are cooking, baking or looking for gifts, Cook’s Whimsy has what the savvy cook needs.

At the grand opening, in addition to holiday specials, those who attend will find product demonstrations for “sodastream,” a line of products for carbonating water to make soda favorites that include cola and root beer and flavored waters, as well as Kyocera knives and espresso makers — all items that can be purchased in the store.

The store’s colorful and well-lit layout makes it easy for customers to find what they are looking for, with different sections devoted to specific needs. For instance, mixers and other appliances are together on the chrome shelving one would find in a professional kitchen. Baking needs can be met just around the corner, and handy gadgets are grouped together in a substantial wall display.

Featured items can be located on tables around the spacious room.

“Once people know where things are located, they can always find what they want quickly,” Clark said.

What people will find is an assortment of familiar brand names like Cuisinart, Zyliss and leCrueset.

Yet quality doesn’t necessarily mean high prices, Clark said. She has done her homework and offers an assortment of products that are well-made and take the chore out of kitchen work.

The venture is a family affair with many contributing their professional expertise. Clark’s partner in the business is her mother. Her dad, a retired engineer, built the wooden fixtures for the store, from the cabinets and bookshelves down to the charming utensil racks. Clark’s brother-in-law worked on the graphic design, and her sister created and developed the store’s website.

The front corner of the store is a warmly lit seating area where cooks can sit and share culinary ideas. Clark has designed a place she hopes will serve as the hub of a cooking community.

“I want this to be the first place that pops into people’s heads when they need something for the kitchen, whether it is something they need to buy or a place they go for answers to their questions,” she said.



Margaret S. Ingle is a freelance reporter for The Peninsula Gateway.